The square, popularly known as 50 Cent Park, has undergone a $3.2 million upgrade courtesy of funding from the NT Government.

The square, on the busy intersection of Katherine Terrace and Giles Street, will be officially opened from 6.30pm this Thursday.

The project has come in for close scrutiny already by residents with first the loss of the clock and then all of the park's big, shady trees.

The area is now surfaced in mostly concrete, with some shady structures and new fast-growing trees have been planted.

Most believe the decision to open the square at night is avoid the heat of the build up and allow the new lighting and big screen monitor to be featured.

As well the park includes a relocatable kiosk "The Meeting Place" with expressions of interest advertised for a business operator to take up the lease.

The upgrade money was provided by the NT Government for a revamp of the town's CBD after a number of shops became vacant.

A total of $1.5 million of the original grant was siphoned off to finish the long-delayed hot springs project.

Council decided to spend all the remaining money in the park.

Number one on the list of council's priorities for the new business is to "enhance the precinct as a friendly, safe and inviting place".

Secondly, another key objective is to "maximise the economic, social and cultural benefits to the precinct and wider community".

The next big project to be undertaken by the council, using NT Government funds, is the upgrade to the sportsgrounds which will include the replacement of the Don Dale Pavilion.

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